How to get GOOD GRADES and STUDY in college (study tips, habits, advice)

Summary

In this comprehensive guide, Gina B shares her strategies for academic success, emphasizing the importance of early planning, effective study techniques like active recall, and the value of networking. She advises organizing schedules around syllabi, understanding grading systems, and prioritizing self-care. Gina also stresses the significance of genuine relationships and being proactive in college, suggesting that these elements can lead to a balanced and successful academic journey.

Takeaways

• 📅 Start planning early: The speaker emphasizes the importance of organizing your schedule right from the moment you get your syllabus.
• 🎨 Use color-coding for prioritization: Suggests using Google Calendar and color-coding tasks by difficulty or credit to visualize workload and prepare accordingly.
• 🔍 Be strategic with your efforts: Focus on tasks that contribute more significantly to your grade, rather than spreading yourself thin on less impactful assignments.
• 👀 Pay attention to grading policies: Understanding how your teacher grades and the weight of different assignments is crucial for effective 'grade hacking'.
• 📚 Actively participate in class: Being active and showing the teacher that you care can make a difference in your grades and relationship with the instructor.
• 🤝 Network with professors: Building a rapport with your professors can be beneficial, especially for future recommendations or insights.
• 👥 Collaborate with smart peers: Having friends who are knowledgeable in your subjects can provide additional learning support and clarify complex topics.
• 📈 Utilize study groups: Study groups can help distribute the workload and provide different perspectives on understanding course material.
• 📝 Practice active recall: Active recall, a study technique involving self-testing, is recommended for effective learning and retention.
• 🗓️ Schedule designated study and rest days: Establishing a routine with specific days for studying, homework, and rest can lead to better focus and reduced burnout.
• 💪 Prioritize self-care and health: The script stresses the importance of not sacrificing health for academic success and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Q & A

What is the key to getting good grades according to Gina B's experience?

Gina B emphasizes the importance of starting to plan and organize from the moment the syllabus is received, rather than waiting until the first day of class. She suggests using tools like Google Calendar and Notion to track assignments and progress.

How did Gina B manage her class schedule and assignments?

Gina B used Google Calendar to input important dates and color-coded them by difficulty or credit. She also used a Notion flow sheet to track the status of her assignments, moving them from 'assigned' to 'completed' as she worked through them.

What is 'grade hacking' as described by Gina B?

Grade hacking, as described by Gina B, is a strategy to get good grades that involves more than just hard work. It includes understanding the grading system, focusing on assignments that are worth more, and being strategic about time and energy allocation.

Why are the first two weeks of a class important according to Gina B?

The first two weeks are important because they set the tone for the rest of the semester. It's a time to be serious, engage with the material, and understand the teacher's grading style and expectations.

How did Gina B approach studying and what technique did she find effective?

Gina B found the technique of active recall to be highly effective. This involves creating tests for oneself based on lecture notes and focusing study efforts on areas where information cannot be immediately recalled.

What role did networking play in Gina B's college experience?

Networking played a significant role in Gina B's college experience. She advises getting to know teachers, connecting with upperclassmen, and participating in clubs and internships to build relationships that can be beneficial for future career opportunities.

Why is it important to maintain a good start in the semester according to Gina B?

Maintaining a good start in the semester is important because it sets a strong foundation for the rest of the term. If a student starts with good grades on the first assignments and quizzes, it's easier to maintain that level of performance throughout the semester.

How does Gina B define 'active recall' in the context of studying?

Active recall is a study technique where a student has to recall information from memory, often using flashcards or self-testing. It requires actively thinking about and retrieving information, which helps in better understanding and retention.

What are some of the study habits Gina B suggests for effective learning?

Gina B suggests having designated study days, homework days, and rest days. She also emphasizes the importance of deep work and focused studying for a set amount of time, rather than spreading out study sessions over every day.

How does Gina B view the importance of health and self-care in relation to education?

Gina B stresses that education is not more important than health. She advises taking care of physical and mental health, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle to ensure optimal brain function and overall well-being.

What advice does Gina B give regarding the choice of degree and its relation to future salary and lifestyle?

Gina B advises being intentional and choosing a degree that aligns with one's desired lifestyle and salary expectations. She points out that a degree does not directly translate to a high salary and that factors like field of study and experience play a significant role.